Police Force Mourns Officer Killed In Motorcycle-Van Crash

BRISTOW, Va. (WUSA) -- Police officers often witness scenes of death and grief... but this one is their own: a growing memorial of flowers for beloved fellow Prince William County Police Officer Chris Yung. The 35-year-old father of three died in the line of duty December 31st, 2012, while responding to a call for a separate accident.

His motorcycle collided with a Dodge Caravan that turned in front of him. Both vehicles burst into flames. Yung received emergency care and was taken to a hospital where he died.

"Chris meant a lot to us. He was an outstanding police officer, a true public servant in every sense of the word, and we all miss him very much," said acting police chief Barry Barnard who visited with Yung's family New Years Day.

Yung was traveling southbound on Nokesville when the crash took place at the intersection of Nokesville Rd and Piper Lane in Bristow. At the time of the crash, the traffic signal for Nokesville Rd at the intersection was green, permitting northbound and southbound traffic to flow, police said.

Yung, a seven-year veteran of the Prince William County Police Dept., and father of three children, was assigned to the traffic unit as a motorcycle officer.

The driver and passenger in the 2001 Dodge Caravan were not injured. The driver has been identified as a 69-year-old woman from Gainesville, Va., and the passenger as a 47-year-old woman also from Gainesville, Va.

The investigation continues. No charges have been filed.

A candlelight vigil for Yung is planned for 7:30 tonight in the parking lot of Target at 9900 Sowder Village Sq., Bristow.

Co-workers say Yung's wife had also been an officer with Prince William County until recently. They say Yung's brother and sister in law are also police officers. One message at the memorial reads... "Chris you are a true hero, and you will be missed. Patrick and Baby will know you for being a great uncle. I miss you and love you, Nancy."

Friends and co-workers say Yung had infectious smile and was everybody's friend. Yung served in the United States Marine Corps and seven years with the Prince William County Police Department.